Introducing the New Renault Sandero

Renault have released an all-new version of their Dacia-based budget hatchback. This is the 2014 Renault Sandero hatch.

First launched in 2007, the Renault Sandero saw the Gaelic manufacturer venture into the ‘budget-beater’ territory. Rebadged in South Africa as a Renault but otherwise known as a Dacia, the Sandero was a no-nonsense, good value hatchback designed in Romania and built to serve the needs of the worlds developing markets such as Eastern Europe, India and South Africa. Now, almost 7 years since it first launched, Renault South Africa have introduced the all-new Sandero into the local market.

Styling

The 2014 Sandero takes styling cues from its Clio IV stablemate, while keeping the unpretentious feel of the outgoing model. The front end features a chrome strip around the grill, with the front bumper just a single air-intake. Body coloured wing-mirrors continue the door-sill line. At the rear the design is simple and square, featuring cluster rear-lights and a small roof-spoiler.

The interior is highly similar to the outgoing model, but with revised switch gear and radio. Air conditioning and MP3/CD radio unit with USB and Bluetooth connectivity available on all models.

Engine

The new Sandero is powered by a 0.9l turbo-charged engine, the same unit found in the new Renault Clio IV, producing 66kW and 135 Nm. Through the use of such a small engine, the Sandero returns a combined-cycle fuel-economy of just 5.2l/100km.

Specification

As mentioned above, the Sandero comes standard with MP3/CD Radio, but the Expression level is also equipped with ABS, EBD and ESP to increase safety as well as Hill Start Assist. The Dynamiuqe model comes with all these features as well as front-side airbags, a feature unique to this segment and cruise control with speed limiter.

The Renault Sandero Expression Turbo 66kW is priced from R123 000 (excluding Aircon) and the Dynamique Turbo 66kW version from R141 500. Both models come with a 5-year 150 000km warranty complimented with a 2-year/30 000km service plan (Service intervals: 15 000km)